Apparatus and a method for playing a game

ABSTRACT

A method of playing a game. The game has plurality of possible outcomes and establishes a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome. A wager is established by a player on one of the outcomes. The player wager includes a stake and a selected wager outcome. The game establishes an actual outcome. The actual outcome is compared to the selected wager outcome. If the actual outcome matches the selected outcome, a payout is determined by a function of the product of the stake and the fractional payout multiplier associated with the selected outcome.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation in part application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/243,870, filed Oct. 5, 2005 (AttorneyDocket No. 60,708-001) and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/731,600, filed Oct. 28, 2005 (Attorney DocketNo. 60,708-002), both of which are hereby incorporated by reference

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a method of playing a wagering game anda method for determining a payout.

2. Background of the Invention

Various games already exist in a gaming arena. For example, U.S. Pat.No. 6,896,264 offers a dice game that uses two six-sided dice and with apayout for either a single roll or a wager where a winner is determinedtwo consecutive rolls. U.S. Pat. No. 6,893,019 offers a dice game thatuses three six-side dice to determine a winning wagers. The game offersvarious payout odds for each wager and a winning wager is determined bythe sum of the single die, a pair of dice, or all three dice, on asingle roll of all three dice.

However, few of the prior art games ever are successful because theyoften have complex wagering schemes or are too simple to captivate aplayer.

The present invention is aimed at one or more of the problems as setforth above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus isprovided. The gaming apparatus includes an outcome generator and acontroller. The outcome generator generates an actual outcome. Theactual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes. Thecontroller is coupled to the outcome generator for establishing afractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the randomoutcome generator, and for allowing a player to place a wager. The wagerincludes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of thepossible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as afunction of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosenoutcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a second aspect of the present invention, a method provides a gamehaving a plurality of possible outcomes. The method includes the stepsof establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcomeand allowing a player to place a wager on a chosen outcome. The wagerincludes a stake and a chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomesof the game. The method also includes the step of randomly establishingan actual outcome of the game and modifying the stake as a function ofthe wager and the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to thechosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a third aspect of the present invention, a slot gaming apparatus isprovided. The slot gaming apparatus includes an outcome generator togenerate an actual outcome and a controller. The actual outcome beingone of a plurality of possible outcomes. The outcome generator includesa plurality of rotating reels. Each rotating reel having one or morereel positions. Each reel position has an associated fractional value.The outcome generator has one or more paylines being composed of atleast one reel position. The controller rotates the reels andestablishes an actual outcome. The actual outcome has a fractionalpayout multiplier. The fractional payout multiplier is determined as asum of the fractional values of the at least one reel position of one ofthe paylines. The controller allows a player to place a wager. The wagerincluding a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of thepossible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as afunction of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosenoutcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus isprovided. The gaming apparatus includes at least one roulette wheel anda controller. The at least one roulette wheel has a track with aplurality of cassettes. Each cassette has an associated fractionalvalue. The at least one roulette wheel generates an actual outcome. Theactual outcome including one of the cassettes. The controller is coupledto the roulette wheel for establishing a fractional payout multiplierfor each possible outcome of the at least one roulette wheel and forallowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and achosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes ofthe game. The controller modifies the stake as a function of thefractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if theactual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus isprovided. The gaming apparatus includes an outcome generator and acontroller. The outcome generator generates an actual outcome. Theactual outcome is one of a plurality of possible outcomes. The outcomegenerator includes a deck of cards, wherein at least one card is dealtto a player. The cards having an associated fractional value. Thecontroller establishes a fractional payout multiplier for each possibleoutcome of the random outcome generator and allows a player to place awager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosenoutcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controllermodifies the stake as a function of the fractional payout multipliercorresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals thechosen outcome.

In a sixth aspect of the present invention a gaming apparatus isprovided. The gaming apparatus includes at least one gambling wheel togenerate an actual outcome and a controller. The actual outcome beingone of a plurality of possible outcomes. The at least one gambling wheelhas a plurality of chambers. Each chamber having an associatedfractional value. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator forestablishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome ofthe gambling wheel and for allowing a player to place a wager. The wagerincludes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of thepossible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as afunction of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosenoutcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a seventh aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus isprovided. The gaming apparatus includes a lottery wheel and acontroller. The lottery wheel forms a cavity and has a plurality oflottery balls located in the cavity. Each lottery ball has an associatedfractional value. The lottery wheel generates an actual outcome. Theactual outcome is one of a plurality of possible outcomes. Thecontroller is coupled to the lottery wheel for establishing a fractionalpayout multiplier for each possible outcome of the lottery wheel and forallowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and achosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes ofthe game. The controller modifies the stake as a function of thefractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if theactual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In an eighth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus havingan outcome generator and a controller is provided. The outcome generatorgenerates a plurality of primary outcomes. Each primary outcome has aprimary value from a set of possible values. The set of possible valueshas a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number ofopposite negative values. The controller is coupled to the outcomegenerator for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes achosen outcome. The controller establishes an actual outcome by summingthe primary values of the primary outcomes and paying to the player apayout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In a ninth aspect of the present invention, a method for providing agame having a plurality of possible outcomes is provided. The methodincludes the step of establishing a plurality of primary outcomes. Eachprimary outcome has a primary value from the set of possible values. Theset of possible values has a predetermined number of positive values andan equal number of opposite negative values. The method also includesthe step of allowing a player to place a wager on a chosen outcome andallowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and achosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes ofthe game. The method further includes the steps of establishing anactual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primaryoutcomes and paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matchesthe chosen outcome.

In a tenth aspect of the present invention, a slot gaming apparatushaving an outcome generator and a controller is provided. The outcomegenerator generates an actual outcome. The actual outcome is one of aplurality of possible outcomes. The outcome generator has a plurality ofrotating wheels. Each rotating wheel reel has one or more reelpositions. Each reel position has an associated primary value. Theprimary value being from the set of possible values having predeterminednumber of positive values and an equal number of opposite negativevalues. The outcome generator has one or more pay lines composed of atleast one reel position. The controller rotates the reels andestablishes an actual outcome. The actual outcome is determined as thesum of the primary values of the at least one reel position of one ofthe pay lines. The controller allows a player to place a wager. Thewager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is oneof the possible outcomes of the game. The controller pays to the playera payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In an eleventh aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatushaving a plurality of roulette wheels and a controller is provided. Eachroulette wheel has a track with a plurality of cassettes. Each cassettehas an associated value. Each value is from a set of possible valueshaving a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number ofopposite negative values. Each roulette wheel generates a primaryoutcome. The primary outcome includes one of the cassettes. Thecontroller is coupled to the roulette wheel for allowing a player toplace a wager. The wager includes a stake and the chosen outcome. Thechosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. Thecontroller establishes an actual outcome of the game. The actual outcomeis determined as a sum of the primary values associated with thecassette of the primary outcome of each roulette wheel. The controllerpays to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosenoutcome.

In a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus havingan outcome generator and a controller is provided. The outcome generatorestablishes a plurality of primary outcomes. Each primary outcome has aprimary value from the set of possible values. The set of possiblevalues has a predetermined number of possible values and an equal numberof opposite negative values. The outcome generator includes a deck ofcards wherein at least one card is dealt to a player. Each card isassociated with a primary outcome. The controller is coupled to theoutcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager. The wagerincludes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of thepossible outcomes of the game. The controller establishes an actualoutcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primaryoutcomes and for paying to the player a pay out if the actual outcomematches the chosen outcome.

In a thirteenth aspect of the present invention gaming apparatus havingat least one gambling wheel and a controller is provided. The at leastone gambling wheel establishes a plurality of primary outcomes. Eachprimary outcome has a primary value from a set of possible values. Theset of possible values has a predetermined number of possible values andan equal number of opposite negative values. The gambling wheel has aplurality of chambers. Each chamber being associated with a primaryoutcome. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator for allowinga player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosenoutcome. The chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of thegame. The controller establishes an actual outcome of the game bysumming the primary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to theplayer a pay out if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatushaving at least one lottery wheel and a controller is provided. The atleast one lottery wheel establishes a plurality of primary outcomes.Each primary outcome has a primary value from a set of possible values.The set of possible values has a predetermined number of positive valuesand an equal number of opposite negative values. The at least onelottery wheel forms a cavity and has a plurality of lottery ballslocated in the cavity. Each lottery ball is associated with a primaryoutcome. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator for allowinga player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosenoutcome. The chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of thegame. The controller establishes an actual outcome of the game bysumming the primary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to theplayer a pay out if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated,as the same becomes better understood by reference to the followingdetailed description when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a gaming apparatus for providinga game, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a gaming apparatus for providing a gameimplemented on a game computer, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a gaming apparatus for providing a gameacross a network, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a simple flow diagram of a method for providing a game,according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a table game;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a fractional payout;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a complete single game;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a table embodiment for playing multiplegames on one playing surface;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a table game for implementing a part orentire electronic version of the game;

FIG. 10 is a screen display for a software version of the game;

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied ina slot machine, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied ina single roulette wheel, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied ina slot machine in a double roulette wheel, according to an embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 14A is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodiedin a card game, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14B is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodiedin a card game, according to another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied ina gambling wheel, according to an embodiment of the present invention;and,

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied inlottery wheel, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to the drawings, wherein like numerals indicatecorresponding parts throughout the several views, and in operation, thepresent invention provides a gaming apparatus and method for the play ofa game. The gaming apparatus and the method are generally referred to byreference numbers 10 and 40, respectively.

With particular reference to FIG. 1, the gaming apparatus 10 includes anoutcome generator 12 and a computer-based controller 14 coupled thereto.The outcome generator 12 generates an actual outcome of the game. Theactual outcome is one of a plurality of possible outcomes (see below).

In one aspect of the present invention, a fractional payout multiplieris established for each possible outcome and stored at the controller14. The controller 14 allows a player to place a wager. The wagerincludes a stake, which is typically representative of a monetaryamount, and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possibleoutcomes. After the outcome generator 12 generates the actual outcome ofthe game, the chosen outcome is compared with the actual outcome. If theactual outcome equals the chosen outcome, the player's stake is modifiedas a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to thechosen outcome.

In another aspect of the present invention, a plurality of primaryoutcomes are generated. In the examples discussed below, two primaryoutcomes are generated. However, it should be noted that the presentinvention is not limited to a specific number of primary outcomes. Eachprimary outcome has a primary value from a set of possible of values.The set of possible values have a predetermined number of positivevalues and an equal number of opposite negative numbers. The actualoutcome is the sum of the primary values from the primary outcomes. Apayout is paid to the player if the actual outcome matches or equals thechosen outcome. In general, an actual outcome matches or equals thechosen outcome if a predetermined aspect of the actual outcome is thesame as the chosen outcome. For example, the predetermined aspect may bewhether the actual outcome is positive or negative, the absolute valueof the actual outcome, or the value associated with the actual outcome.The predetermined aspect will be chosen based on, inter alia, the typeof bet (see below), the odds (based on the game being played), thedesired pay table, and any other desired factor.

There are generally three types of bets: a positional bet, a directionalbet, or a precision bet. Any implementation may offer one or more of thebet types.

In the positional bet, the patron is wagering that the end result of thegame, i.e., the fractional payout value, will have an UP or a DOWNresult (corresponding to a positive value or a negative value,respectively). However, if the player guesses correctly, the player'sstake is increased by the product of the absolute value of thefractional payout multiplier and the stake. If the player guessesincorrectly, the player's stake is decreased by the product of theabsolute value of the fractional payout multiplier and the stake.

In the direction bet, the patron is again wagering that the end resultof the game, i.e., the fractional payout value, will have an UP or aDOWN result (corresponding to a positive value or a negative value,respectively). If the player chooses correctly, the payout ratio is 1:1.Thus, if the player had wagered $1 (or 1 credit), the player wouldreceive their original wager back, plus an additional $1 (1 credit). Ifthe player does not choose correctly, the player forfeits their entirewager.

In a precision bet, the player's chosen outcome includes a fractionalpayout multiplier, in other words, the exact sum of the reel positionson the selected payline. If the player chooses correctly, then thepayout is determined using a pay table (which includes a plurality ofpredetermined multipliers). If the player chooses incorrectly, then theplayer loses their entire stake.

In one aspect of the present invention, the game apparatus 10 is run ona computer. For example, with particular reference to FIG. 2, theapparatus 10 may include a game computer 20, such as a standalonecomputer. The game may be implemented using a computer programapplication 22 which runs on the game computer 20. The outcome generator12 may also be implemented using a computer program application or maybe implemented using a separate random number generator 13 as is knownin the art. The random number generator 13 generates a random number outof a total number of possible outcome numbers. It should be noted thatalthough there may be an equal chance of a particular number beinggenerated by the random number generator 13, the probability associatedwith the possible outcomes of the outcome generator 14 might not beequal.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3, the apparatus 10 may include one ormore computers 30, linked or networked to the controller 14. In theillustrated embodiment, n computers 30A, 30B. . . 30n are shown. Thecomputers 30 may be linked to the controller 14 using a computer network32 such as an LAN, WAN, or the Internet. The network 32 may be comprisedof wired and/or wireless connections. The controller 14 may beimplemented using another computer. One or more players (not shown) mayinteract with the apparatus 10 via one of the computers 30 to placewagers and track the game being played. Wagers may be made from accountsstored on the apparatus 10 or using funds input into the apparatus 10using monetary instruments, including cash, tokens, tickets, magneticstripe cards or other any suitable means.

The outcome generator 12 may be implemented using a known type of game,e.g., one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine, a deck ofplaying cards, a lottery wheel, a gambling wheel, two or more dice, orany combination thereof. In one embodiment, the known type of game issimulated by the outcome generator and/or controller.

In another embodiment, the gaming apparatus 10 is implemented as a tablegame (see below).

In another embodiment, the outcome generator 12 is implemented usingphysical representations of the known game types to generate theoutcome. The actual outcome may be automatically determined or input bya dealer, croupier or other person.

For example, if the outcome generator 12 is implemented using one ormore roulette wheels, the actual outcome may be automatically read byreading markers embedded in the roulette ball(s) or read using a cameraand computer-based pattern recognition. Alternatively, the croupier mayinput the results into the controller. Other methods for recognizing andidentifying the actual outcome may also be used, e.g., RFID chips,barcodes, etc. . . . , may be used appropriately to establish the actualoutcome.

In one embodiment of the present invention one or more of the fractionalpayout multipliers are negative and one or more of the fractional payoutmultipliers are positive.

In one embodiment, the player may make a wager on whether the actualoutcome is either positive or negative. In other words, the chosenoutcome is “negative” or “positive” and the actual outcome may be equalthe chosen outcome if the fractional payout multiplier of the actualoutcome is positive or negative, respectively.

In another embodiment, the outcome generator, in establishing an actualoutcome of the game, randomly establishes first and second primaryoutcomes of the game. Each primary outcome has an associated fractionalvalue. The fractional values associated with the first and secondprimary outcomes of the game are added to establish the actual outcomeof the game. The sum of the of the fractional values associated with thefirst and second primary outcomes may be positive or negative.

For example, in one embodiment, each of the first and second primaryoutcomes of the game may have an associated value of +½, +¼, +⅛, −½, −¼,or −⅛. Thus the possible sums of the associated fractional values of thefirst and second primary outcomes are +1, +⅝, +⅜, +¾, +½, +¼,+¼, 0, −¼,−½, −¾, − 3/9, −⅝, and −1

In one aspect, the player may make a wager on the exact value of thefractional value associated with the actual outcome. In other words, theplayer may make a wager that the actual outcome will have an associatedfractional output of, e.g., +⅝. For example, the chosen outcome may be anumber and the actual chosen outcome is equal to the chosen outcome ifthe fractional outcome is equal to the chosen outcome. Alternatively,the chosen outcome may be a number and the actual chosen outcome isequal to the chosen outcome if the absolute value of the fractionaloutcome is equal to the chosen outcome.

Alternatively, the player may make a wager on the absolute value of thefractional value of the actual outcome. In other words, the player'schosen outcome may be ⅝. The actual outcome is equal to the chosenoutcome if the absolute value of the actual outcome is equal to ⅝, i.e.,if the fractional value associated with the actual outcome is +⅝ or −⅝.

In another aspect, the player may make a wager on whether the fractionalvalue of the actual outcome will be negative or positive. The chosenoutcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome is equalto the chosen outcome if the sum of the fractional outcome is positiveor negative, respectively.

If the chosen outcome is equal to the actual outcome (howeverdetermined, see above), the outcome may be characterized as a “win”. Ifthe chosen outcome is not equal to the actual outcome, the outcome maybe characterized as a “loss”.

In one embodiment, if the player experiences a win, they are awarded apayout according to a predetermined pay table. The pay table includes aplurality of payout multipliers.

In one embodiment, the payout is determined as a function of theplayer's stake is multiplied by the payout multiplier. For example,payout multipliers may be a series of positive multipliers. If theplayer experiences a win, then the player is awarded a payout equal tothe player's stake multiplied by the corresponding payout multiplier.

In another embodiment, the payout multipliers is a fractional value. Ifthe player experiences a win, then their stake is increased by theproduct of the corresponding fractional payout multiplier (or theabsolute value thereof, if negative). The player loses, then theplayer's stake is decreased by the product of the correspondingfractional payout multiplier (or the absolute value thereof, ifnegative). It should be noted that the fractional payout multiplier'smay be equal to 0 or 1.

With specific reference to FIG. 4, a method 40 for providing a gamehaving a plurality of possible outcomes is shown. In a first step 42,step a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome isestablished. In a second step 44, a player is allowed to place a wageron a chosen outcome. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome.The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. In athird step 46, an actual outcome of the game is randomly established.The actual outcome being one of the possible outcomes. It should benoted that each of the possible outcome may not have an equalprobability. In a fourth step 47, the stake is modified as a function ofthe wager and the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to thechosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Dice Game

With specific reference to FIGS. 5-10, wherein like numerals indicatecorresponding parts throughout the several views, and in operation, thepresent invention provides a device and method for the play of a dicegame. The device may take the form of a mat, table cloth, cover, placemat or the like, and can be implemented as software for play on acomputer, a video game, and as a stand alone or for play over a computernetwork or the internet. Directional and/or positional and/or precisionbets may be offered.

As shown in FIG. 5, an embodiment of the device and method as played ona table 110. The table 110 is similar to those used for the play ofcraps, including a rail 112 surrounding a playing surface 114. The rail112 extends up from the playing surface 114 for keeping the dice withinthe playing surface 114. The playing surface 114 further defines awagering area 116. The game involves a player predicting the randomoutcomes of a pair of die 118. Each die 118 has a plurality of faces120, e.g., six. The dice 118 have a plurality of rolled outcomes thatcomprises of the combination of one the faces 120, or associated values,from each of the die 118. In one embodiment, the outcome of the dice 118corresponds to a fractional payout multiplier 122 that is less than orequal to one. The fractional payout multiplier 122 determines a payoutfor each outcome of the dice 118.

The dice 118 are identical having an equal number of sides, and faces.In one embodiment, each face 120 of the die 118 presents either apositive or negative value. In addition, each die 118 has the sameindicators, with one face 120 indicating a positive value and anotherface 120 presents an opposite negative value. For example, if the die118 had a face 120 presenting a four another face 120 on the same diewould present a negative four. The numerical markings on the dice couldindicate the positive and negative values utilizing various indicationssuch as a sign before the value, coloring, i.e., red for negative andgreen for positive, or any additional marking known in the art. Therolled outcome of the dice 118 is equal to the sum of the associatedvalues of a top face 120 for each of the rolled die 118. In oneembodiment, the dice 118 indicate a positive or negative value asdiscussed above, for this embodiment the rolled outcome of the dice 118could be a positive value, a negative value or a zero. For example, thedice 118 are rolled and the rolled outcome is determined by combining oralgebraically summing the top face 120 presented on each of the die 118,as shown in the following table: Rolled Outcome Die 1 (top face) Die 2(top face) (for the pair of dice) ¼ −⅛ ⅛ −½   −½ −1 ½ −⅛ ⅜

As illustrated in FIG. 6, a method 200 that includes a first step 202,to begin the game, a player places a wager on one of the rolled outcomesto indicate a selected wager outcome. Each wager consists of a wageramount and the selected wager outcome, corresponding to the player'sprediction of a next rolled outcome of the dice 218. In a second step104, the dice 118 are rolled to establish a rolled outcome of the dice118 based on the sum of the values or indicators on the top faces 120 ofthe rolled dice 118. As known in the art, the dice could be rolled by aplayer, a machine, randomly generated by a computer program, or acroupier. In a third step 206, the rolled outcome of the dice 118 iscompared to the selected wager outcome. In a fourth step 208, a payoutis calculated for a match between the selected wager outcome and therolled outcome. The payout is a portion of the wager amount calculatedby a function of the product of the wager amount and the fractionalmultiplier, i.e., the wager amount times the fractional multiplier. In afifth step 210, the payout is paid increasing the wager amount.Alternatively, in a fourth step 212, if the rolled outcome does notmatch the selected wager outcome, the payout is a portion of the wageramount calculated by the function of the product of the wager amount andthe fractional multiplier. Finally, in an alternative fifth step 214,the wager amount is decreased by the payout.

The payout is determined as a function of a product of the wager amountand the fractional payout multiplier. For example, if a given outcome(combination of the end result for each die) has an establishedfractional multiplier of ¼, or 0.25, if a player establishing a wager onthis selected wager outcome and the rolled outcome matches, are paid thewager amount plus the payout, calculated by a function equal to theproduct of the wager amount times the fractional payout, or ¼, toincrease the player wager by ¼. However, if the selected wager outcomedoes not match the rolled outcome, the payout is subtracted from thewager amount to partially reduce or decrease of the wager amount.However, it is to be understood that each possible rolled outcome of thedice has an established fractional multiplier, that is a fractionalvalue less than or equal to one.

One embodiment of the dice game includes the use of a pair of six sideddie. The dice each have six faces and each face presents one of thefollowing fractional numbers ½, ¼, ⅛, −½, −¼ and −⅛. Therefore thepossible rolled outcomes are 1, ¾, ⅝, ½, ⅜, ¼, ⅛, −1, −¾, −⅝, −½, −⅜, −¼and −⅛, and a zero. The established fractional multiplier for eachrolled outcome is equal to the absolute value of the rolled outcome. Forexample, the player places a wager that includes a wager amount of $100on a selected wager outcome of “positive” as the player's prediction ofthe next rolled outcome. The dice are then rolled and the top face 120of each die 118 is combined, by summing the indicated value, e.g. +½. Inthis example, the rolled outcome is the sign, i.e., positive (or “up”)or negative (or “down”) of the sum. If the rolled outcome (positive)matches the selected rolled outcome of the wager (positive), thefractional payout multiplier, the absolute value of rolled outcome, or ½in the given example, the payout is a function of the product of thefractional payout multiplier times the wager amount of $100 to equal apayout of $50. Since the rolled outcome and the selected wager outcomematch, the payout is added to the wager amount of 100 for a total of$150. However, if the player placed the wager amount on the selectedwager outcome of negative (or “down”) and the rolled outcome waspositive, the payout is the same as calculated above and equal to $50,but for a selected wager outcome not matching the rolled outcome, thepayout of $50 is subtracted from the wager amount of $100 thereforedecreasing the player wager to $50.

As shown in FIG. 5, another embodiment of the table 110 or a deviceestablishes the game with a wager area 116 divided into several wagerareas, a first wager area 226, a second wager area 228 and a third wagerarea 230. Each of the wager areas 226, 228, 230 provides differentpayouts and increased wagering options and further adds the possibilityfor larger payouts.

The first wager area 226 incorporates the fractional payout multiplier122 to determine a payout as already discussed above and establishes thefractional payout multiplier 122 for each rolled outcome. The payout, asdiscussed above, is added to the wager amount if there is a matchbetween the rolled outcome and the selected wager outcome. However, thepayout is subtracted from the wager amount if the selected wager outcomedoes not match the rolled outcome. This embodiment includes the secondwager area 228 for a player to establish a second wager. The payout ofthe second wager area 228 is determined by a second payout multiplier232 that is established for all wagers in the second wager area. Thethird wager area 230 allows for a player to establish a third wager oneach of the possible rolled outcomes, and a third payout multiplier 234established for each of the possible rolled outcomes. The thirdmultiplier 234 can vary, as known in the art, according to the odds ofthe rolled outcome which allow for payouts that are increase based onthe odds of each of the rolled outcomes.

The first wager area, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, includes afirst wager indicator 236 and second wager indicator 238. The firstwager indicator 236 is for a player to place a wager indicating a firstgroup of rolled outcomes as the selected wager outcome, which in thisembodiment, are the rolled outcomes that are positive numbers. Thesecond wager indicator 238 is for a player to place a wager indicating asecond group of rolled outcomes as the selected wager outcome, which inthis embodiment, are the rolled outcomes that are negative numbers.However, it is understood that the first and second group can includeany combination of possible rolled outcome.

A player establishes a wager by placing a first wager amount on thefirst wager indicator 36 or the second wager indicator 238, selectingthe selected wager outcome to indicate the player's prediction on thenext rolled outcome. A payout is determined by comparing the rolledoutcome to the selected wager outcome as discussed above and utilizingthe fractional payout multiplier 122 to determine the payout. A rolledoutcome of zero results in a push, leaving the player wagers in thefirst wager area 226. It is understood that any rolled outcome couldfurther indicate a push, the described embodiment utilizes zero sincethe dice contain both positive and negative values or numbers.

The second wager area 228 is established by presenting a third wagerindicator 40 to indicate the first group of rolled outcomes as theselected wager outcome and a fourth wager indicator 242 to indicate thesecond group of rolled outcomes as the selected wager outcome. Thesecond payout multiplier 232 is established for the third wagerindicator 240, and the fourth wager indicator 242. A player establishinga second wager places a second wager amount on the third or fourthindicator 240, 242 to indicate the selected wager outcome. The rolledoutcome is compared to the selected wager outcomes of the second wagerarea 228, and a second payout is disbursed if the rolled outcome matchesthe selected wager outcomes. The second payout is equal to an amount asa function of a product of the wager amount of the second wager and thesecond payout multiplier 232. For example, of the second payoutmultiplier 232 could be set as one for the third and fourth wagerindicator 240, 242, meaning that the payout is equal to the wageramount. Therefore, a match between the rolled outcome and the selectedwager outcome would double the wager amount. However, if the selectedwager does not match the rolled outcome the house collects the wageramount. It should be understood that the second payout multiplier 232could be of any multiplier to establish variations of payouts for thethird and fourth wager indicators 240, 242.

The third wager area 230 is established and presents a wager indicator244 for each possible rolled outcome of the dice. A third payoutmultiplier 234 is established for each possible rolled outcome. A thirdwager is established by a player placing a wager amount on a selectedwager indicator 244 in the third wager area to define a selected wageroutcome. The player places the third wager on the player's prediction ofthe next rolled outcome. The payout is determined by comparing therolled outcome to the selected wager outcome of the third wager. If therolled outcome matches the selected wager outcome of the third wager,then a third payout equal to an amount as a function of a product of thewager amount of the third wager and the third payout multiplier 34.However, if the selected wager does not match the rolled outcome thehouse collects the wager amount.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, a method 220 that includes a first step 222,to begin the game a player places a wager in one of the wager area, thefirst, second or third wager areas, 226, 228, 230 to indicate a selectedwager outcome. Each wager consists of a wager amount and the selectedwager outcome, corresponding to the player's prediction of a next rolledoutcome of the dice 118. In a second step 224, the dice 118 are rolledto establish a rolled outcome of the dice 118 based on the sum of thevalues or indicators on the top faces 120 of the rolled dice 118. Asknown in the art, the dice 118 could be rolled by a player, a machine,randomly generated by a computer program, or a croupier. In a third step226, the rolled outcome of the dice 118 is compared to the selectedwager outcome. In a fourth step 228, a payout is calculated for a matchbetween the selected wager outcome and the rolled outcome. The payout isa portion of the wager amount calculated as a function of the product ofthe wager amount where the payout multiplier is the fractionalmultiplier for wagers in the first area 126, the second multiplier forwagers in the second wager area 128, or the third multiplier for wagersin the third area 130. In a fifth step 230, the payout is paidincreasing the wager amount. In a sixth step 232, if the rolled outcomedoes not match the selected wager outcome, it must be determined if thewager was placed in the first wager area. If the wager was not placed inthe first wager area then the method includes a seventh step 234 of thehouse collecting the wager amount. If the wager was established in thefirst wager area 126 the method includes an eight step 236, where thepayout is calculated by the function of the product of the wager amountand the fractional multiplier. Finally, in a ninth step 238 the wageramount is decreased by the payout.

One embodiment of the dice game includes the use of a pair of six sideddie 118. The dice 118 each have six faces 120 and each face 120 presentsone of the following fractional numbers ½, ¼, ⅛, −½, −¼ and −1/8.Therefore, the possible rolled outcomes are 1, ¾, ⅝, ½, ⅜, ¼, ⅛, −1, −¾,−⅝, −½, −⅜, −¼, −⅛, and a zero. The first wager area 26 presents thefirst wager indicator 136 to indicate the first group of numbers beingthe positive rolled outcomes, i.e., 1, ¾, ⅝, ½, ⅜, ¼, ⅛ and the secondwager indicator 38 to indicate the second group of numbers being thenegative rolled outcomes, i.e., −1, −¾, −⅝, −½, −⅜, −¼, −⅛. The secondwager area 128 presents the third wager indicator 140 for the firstgroup and the fourth wager indicator 142 for the second group ofnumbers. The third wager area 130 presents the wager indicators 144 foreach of the possible rolled outcomes. A player establishes a playerwager on one of the wager indicators 136, 138, 140, 142, 144 to definethe selected wager outcome. The dice 118 are rolled and top faces 120are algebraically summed to determine the rolled outcome. The rolledoutcome is compared to the selected wager outcome to determine a winningmatch. A player having a winning match is paid the establish payoutmultiplier for the wager indicators 136, 138, 140, 142, 144 in each ofthe wager areas 126, 128, 130.

A winning match in the first wager area 126 to determine the payoutresults the fractional payout multiplier is determined for the rolledoutcome, for this embodiment absolute value of the rolled outcome ofdice 118. For example, a rolled outcome of ¾ or −¾ has a fractionalpayout multiplier of ¾ or 0.75. Therefore, each winning match in thefirst wager area 126 the payout is determined as a function of theproduct of the wager amount multiplied by fractional payout multiplier,i.e., the absolute value of the rolled outcome multiplied by the wageramount. A player wager in the first wager area 126 on a wager outcomeother than the rolled outcome results in the payout as calculated beingsubtracted from the player wager amount. Also, if the rolled outcome iszero the wagers in the first wager area 126 are left as a push. Thisembodiment of the dice simplifies the determination of the fractionalpayout multiplier since it is equal to the absolute value of the rolledoutcome. Additional versions of this simplification could include otherfractional values or each face 120 could be an equivalent percentagerather than the fractional value, i.e., 12.5%, 25%, and 50% and thefractional payout multiplier could be determine from the sum of therolled dice in that situation as a percentage increase for a winningmatch or a percentage decrease for other wagers in the first wager area.Also, as stated before the faces 120 of the dice and the rolled outcomecould be any series of number or symbols each having a correspondingfractional payout multiplier.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, the table 110 can further incorporate adisplay 146. The display 146 adds visualization to the past rolledoutcomes to create a trending or data line and may also display the pastrolled outcome similar to roulette. The display 146 can add anadditional excitement of a stock ticker type experience to the game. Thedisplay may provide additional excitement for player with wagers placedin the first wager area 126 since the player could watch the trend and ageneral increase or decrease to the wager amount over several rolledoutcomes. As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6 the display can be incorporated as agraphic display 446, 546.

An additional embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, allows for a table 310with multiple games played on a single playing surface 314. Each of thedice 318 is marked to identify the pair of die 318 corresponding to eachgame and each wagering area. The indicators could be additional markingson each face 320 of the dice 318 or simply having multiple pairs of die318 of various colors or shading. The playing surface 314 includes afirst wager area 326, a second wager area 328 and a third wager area 330for each of the games. The game further establishes a fourth wager area348 presenting wager indicators to indicate a count number representingthe amount of the dice 318 between the several games presenting one ofthe possible numbers of a face 320 of the dice 318. As shown in FIG. 4the possible count numbers are 3, 4, 5 and 6, and three games are beingplayed on the playing surface 314. A fourth payout multiplier isestablished for each count number. A player establishes a fourth wagerby placing a fourth wager amount on the wager indicator to indicate aselected count number for the next rolled outcome of the several pairsof die 318. A payout is determined by comparing the rolled outcome ofthe several pairs of die 318 to the selected count number and paying ifa selected count number matches the rolled outcome. A fourth payout isequal to an amount as a function of a product of the wager amount andthe fourth payout multiplier. For example, a wager on the count numberof 3, could have the fourth payout multiplier of 200, therefore, thepayout would equal the fourth wager amount multiplied by the 200. Thisembodiment further can incorporate a large payout through the use of aprogressive pot as a payout in the fourth wager area 348.

Additionally the game can be implemented on a variety of play surfaces14. One embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, is a standard table 110 gamesimilar to a craps game, with a croupier to facilitate the play, collectlosing wagers and pay off each of the player wagers. An electronic tableversion 410 of the game can further be incorporated on a table displayas shown in FIG. 5. The electronic table 410 can simulate the feel of atraditional dice table while providing each player a wager area orelectronic kiosk 448 to input the wagers on a first wager area 426, asecond wager area 428 or a third wager area 430. The electronic table410 can be implemented as a full computerized version or have a croupierto facilitate the play and payout of the game.

A software version 510, as shown in FIG. 10, can be incorporated intothe electronic table or designed for play on a computer or a videogaming machine. The software version 510, establishes an input screenfor the player to place wagers in the each of the wager area 526, 528and 530. The computer generates the rolled outcome of the dice 520. Thesoftware calculates each of the payouts for the wager areas based on therolled outcome. In addition, both the electronic table and softwareversion could be implemented over a network or the internet.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Slot Machine

With particular reference to FIG. 11, in another embodiment of thepresent invention, the game apparatus 10 can be implemented as amechanical or video slot machine 702. In FIG. 11, a graphicalrepresentation of a display 704 of an exemplary slot machine 702 isdisplayed. The slot machine 702 may be implemented in a game cabinet(not shown) which may be placed on a casino floor, bar top or othersimilar location. Such game cabinets and the associated hardware forproviding games are well known in the art and are therefore not furtherdiscussed. Furthermore, the slot machine implementation of the presentinvention may be implemented as a stand-alone unit or a computer game(stand-alone or networked). In computer game implementations, the slotmachine game may be simulated by a computer.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

The display 704 presents to a patron one or more reels 706. In theillustrated embodiment, the display 704 includes four reels 706A, 706B,706C, 706D, although it should be noted that the game apparatus 10 maybe implemented with more or less reels 706. One or more reel positionsfor each reel 706 are displayed in the display 704. Each reel positionhas an associated fractional value.

Before each play of the game, the player makes a wager which includes astake (which be in terms of credits or a monetary value) and a chosenoutcome. Once the player has made their wager, game play may beinitiated automatically or based on player input. The player may also begiven the option to chose one or more paylines. In the illustratedembodiment, the player may chose one or more horizontal paylines.Although the player may also be given the option to chosennon-horizontal paylines, including vertical paylines. As in a standardslot machine, once game play is initiated, the reels 706 rotate (orappear) to rotate. When the reel(s) are stopped, based on the factionalvalue associated with the reel positions on the reels 706 of the chosenpayline(s), the player's stake may be modified.

In the case of a single reel slot machine, the value associated with thereel position on the selected payline becomes the fractional payoutmultiplier.

In the case of a multiple reel slot machine, the sum of the valuesassociated with the reel positions on the selected payline is thefractional payout multiplier.

For example for a quadruple reel slot machine, the values associatedwith the reel positions on each reel may be from the set of: −0.25,−0.20, −0.15, −0.10, −0.05, +0.05, +0.10, +0.15, +0.20, and +0.25.

For example for a double reel slot machine, the values associated withthe reel positions on each reel may be from the set of: −½, −⅜, −¼, −⅛,+⅛. +¼, +½, and +⅜.

In the illustrated embodiment, the display 704 includes four reels 708A,708B, 708C, 708D, and includes three horizontal paylines 710A, 710B,710C. The display 704 also includes three corresponding bet areas: betarea 1 712A, bet area 2 712B, and bet area 3 712C. Each bet area 1allows the player to make a wager on the selected payline.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Roulette Game

With particular reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, in another embodiment ofthe present invention, the game apparatus 10 is implemented as amechanical or video roulette game 802.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

If FIG. 12, a graphical representation of a roulette wheel 804 is shown.The roulette wheel 804 may be an actual device or may be a computerimplementation or simulation.

In the illustrated embodiment, the roulette wheel 804 includes a track806 defined by an outer wall 808 and a central wall 810. The track 806is separated into a plurality of cassettes 812 for receiving a rouletteball (not shown).

Each cassette 812 has an associated fractional value. The fractionalvalue may be printed or displayed in each cassette. Optionally,alternate or representational symbols may be displayed in each cassette,e.g., color-coded numbers as in a similar to a standard roulette wheel.

One or more players may place a wager, including a stake and a chosenoutcome. In discussed above, there are generally three types of betsoffered a positional bet, a directional bet, or a precision bet.

In a mechanical implementation, the player(s)' wagers may be placed withchips and managed by a croupier, as in a standard roulette type game.Alternatively, the player(s)' wagers may be placed and managedelectronically with the aid of touch-screen display devices 816 (seeFIG. 13) connected to the controller 14. Furthermore, the result, i.e.,the actual outcome, may be determined in any suitable manner, including,but not limited to, (limited or hall effect) sensors located within eachcassette, RFID technology, a camera, or actual outcome input or keyed inby the croupier.

In the computer implementation or simulation, the actual outcome israndomly determined by the controller 14 and simulated on the virtualwheel 804.

In a single roulette 804 implementation, the associated fractional valueof the corresponding cassette of the actual outcome is the fractionalmultiplier value (see above). The actual symbols or fractional valuesmay be chosen from a set of predetermined values. Sample sets include,but are not limited to:

-   Sample set #1: {−1, −0.9, −0.8, −0.7, −0.6, −0.5, −0.4, −0.3, −0.2,    −0.1, 0, +0.1, +0.2, +0.3, +0.4, +0.5, +0.6, +0.7, +0.8, +0.9, +1.0}-   Sample set #2: {−1, −⅞, −¾, −⅝, −½, −⅜, −¼, −⅛, 0, +⅛, +¼, +⅜, +½,    +⅝, +¾, +⅞, +1}

With reference to FIG. 13, in another embodiment the game apparatus 10may include multiple roulette wheels 804A, 804B. It should be noted thatwhile only two roulette wheels 804A, 804B are shown, the presentinvention is not limited to such. Each of the multiple roulette wheels804A, 804B has a plurality of cassettes 812 with an associate fractionalvalue. After the player(s) make their wagers, an end result, i.e., oneof the cassettes, for each roulette wheel 804A, 804B is determined. Inone embodiment, the fractional payout multiplier is the sum of theassociated fractional values of the cassettes associated with the endresult for each roulette wheel 804A, 804B.

For a two wheel implementation, the fractional values associated withthe cassette of each wheel will generally be between −½ and +½, suchthat the range of the sum of the two fractional values will be equal orbetween −1 and +1.

The single roulette wheel 804 or the multiple roulette wheels 804A, 804Bgaming device 10 may be implemented as a mechanical device or as acomputer implementation or simulation, i.e., a virtual wheel.

With specific reference to FIG. 13, either implementation may beimplemented on a table 814. The table 814 may include one or moretouchscreen display devices (three of which are shown) 816A, 816B, 816Bfor allowing a player to make wagers and to track their play.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Card Game

With particular reference to FIGS. 14A and 14B, in another embodiment,the gaming apparatus or device 10 may implement a card game. The cardgame may be implemented using actual or virtual cards. If the game isimplemented using actual cards, the card may be read by using embeddedidentifiers and/or any suitable visual identification means or sensors,or any other suitable means.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

In one embodiment, after each player(s) makes a wager, each player isdealt one or more cards.

Each card has an associated fractional value.

If only one card is dealt to each player, then the fractional payoutmultiplier for each player is equal to the fractional value of theircard. Generally, the fractional value of each card is equal to orbetween −1 and +1.

If multiple cards are dealt to each player, then the fractional payoutmultiplier for each player is generally equal to the sum of thefractional values associated with their cards. Generally, the sum of thefractional values of each card cannot exceed −1 or +1.

An example of a two card game 820 is shown in FIG. 14A. An example of afour card game 822 is shown in FIG. 14B.

Each player may make a positional, a precision or a directional bet orwager. The result of each bet is handled in a manner similar asdiscussed above.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Gambling Wheel

With specific reference FIG. 15, in another embodiment of the presentinvention, the game apparatus 10 is implemented as a gambling wheel 824.The gambling wheel 824 may be implemented as a mechanical wheel or avirtual wheel.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

The gambling or rotation wheel 824 has a plurality of chambers 826 whichare separated by resisting members or pegs 828. Each chamber 826 has anassociated fractional value which may be printed thereon. The wheel 824includes a resisting lever 830.

A player or players may make wager, each including a chosen outcome anda stake. One of the players may initiate rotation of the gambling orrotating wheel 824. In a mechanical implementation of the gambling wheel824, the wheel's rotation is slowed and ultimately stopped by theresisting lever 830 and the resisting members 826. In a computer orsimulation implementation, the actual outcome may be randomly determined(although, it should be noted as indicated above, that each chambers 826does not necessarily have the same probability).

Each chamber 826 has an associated fractional value. The game apparatus10 may utility one or multiple gambling wheels 824. In a single gamblingwheel implementation, the fractional value associated with the actualoutcome, i.e., one of the chambers 826 becomes the fractional payoutmultiplier. Thus, the fractional values of the chambers will generallyhave values equal to or between +1 and −1.

In a multiple gambling wheel implementation, the fractional payoutmultiplier will be equal to the sum of the fractional values of theoutcome chamber 826 from each gambling wheel 824. The fractional payoutmultiplier will generally have a value equal to or between +1 and −1.Thus, for example, in a two wheel implementation, the fractional valuesassociated with the chambers will not exceed +/−½.

Each player may make a positional, a precision or a directional bet orwager. The result of each bet is handled in a manner similar asdiscussed above.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Lottery Wheel

With specific reference FIG. 16, in another embodiment of the presentinvention, the game apparatus 10 is implemented as a lottery wheel 840.The lottery wheel 840 may be implemented as a mechanical wheel or avirtual wheel.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

The gambling or rotation wheel 840 has an interior cavity 842 forholding a plurality of lottery balls 844. Each lottery ball 844 has anassociated fractional value which may be printed thereon. The lotterywheel 840 includes an opening 848 which may include a door for allowingthe lottery balls 844 to drop or be removed from the wheel 840.

A player or players may make wager, each including a chosen outcome anda stake. One of the players may initiate rotation of the gambling orrotating wheel 840. In a mechanical implementation of the lottery wheel824, the wheel 840 will stop rotating and one of the lottery balls 844will be removed. In a computer or simulation implementation, the actualoutcome may be randomly determined (although, it should be noted asindicated above, that each chambers 826 does not necessarily have thesame probability).

The game apparatus 10 may utility one or multiple lottery wheels 840. Ina single lottery wheel implementation, the fractional value associatedwith the actual outcome, i.e., one of the lottery balls 844, becomes thefractional payout multiplier. Thus, the fractional values of the lotteryballs 844 will generally have values equal to or between +1 and −1.

In a multiple lottery wheel implementation, the fractional payoutmultiplier will be equal to the sum of the fractional values of thelottery ball 844 from each gambling wheel 824. The fractional payoutmultiplier will generally have a value equal to or between +1 and −1.Thus, for example, in a two wheel implementation, the fractional valuesassociated with the balls 844 will not exceed +/−½.

Each player may make a positional, a precision or a directional bet orwager. The result of each bet is handled in a manner similar asdiscussed above.

Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present inventionare possible in light of the above teachings. The invention may bepracticed otherwise than as specifically described within the scope ofthe appended claims.

1. A gaming apparatus, comprising: an outcome generator to generate anactual outcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possibleoutcomes; and, a controller coupled to the outcome generator forestablishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome ofthe random outcome generator, for allowing a player to place a wager,the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcomebeing one of the possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying thestake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding tothe chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.
 2. Agaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the outcome generatoris one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine, a deck ofplaying cards, a table game, a lottery wheel, a gambling wheel, two ormore dice, or any combination thereof.
 3. A gaming apparatus, as setforth in claim 1, wherein one or more of the fractional payoutmultipliers are negative and one or more of the fractional payoutmultipliers are positive.
 4. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim1, wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative and theactual outcome equals the chosen outcome if the fractional payoutmultiplier of the actual outcome is positive or negative, respectively.5. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, the outcome generator,in establishing an actual outcome of the game randomly, establishesfirst and second primary outcomes of the game, each primary outcomehaving an associated fractional value, and adds the fractional valuesassociated with the first and second primary outcomes of the game toestablish the actual outcome of the game.
 6. A gaming apparatus, as setforth in claim 5, wherein the sum of the fractional values associatedwith the first and second primary outcomes may be positive or negative.7. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 6, wherein the chosenoutcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome is equalto the chosen outcome if the sum of the fractional outcome is positiveor negative, respectively.
 8. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim1, the controller for reducing the wager as a function of the wager andthe fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome ifthe actual outcome is not equal to the chosen outcome.
 9. A gamingapparatus, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the gaming apparatus isimplemented as one of a table game or software run on one or morecomputers or a computer network.
 10. A method for providing a game, thegame having a plurality of possible outcomes, including the steps of:establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome;allowing a player to place a wager on a chosen outcome, the wagerincluding a stake and a chosen outcome being one of the possibleoutcomes of the game; randomly establishing an actual outcome of thegame, the actual outcome being one of the possible outcomes; and,modifying the stake as a function of the wager and the fractional payoutmultiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcomeequals the chosen outcome.
 11. A method, as set forth in claim 10,wherein the actual outcome is established using a controller.
 12. Amethod, as set forth in claim 10, wherein the actual outcome isestablished using one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine,a table game, a deck of playing cards, a lottery wheel, a gamblingwheel, two or more dice, or any combination thereof.
 13. A method, asset forth in claim 12, including the step of simulating the one of a oneor more roulette wheels, a slot machine, a deck of playing cards, alottery wheel, a gambling wheel, or any combination thereof outcomegenerator using a computer.
 14. A method, as set forth in claim 10,wherein one or more of the fractional payout multipliers are negativeand one or more of the fractional payout multipliers are positive.
 15. Amethod, as set forth in claim 14, wherein the chosen outcome is eitherpositive or negative and the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome ifthe fractional payout multiplier of the actual outcome is positive ornegative, respectively.
 16. A method, as set forth in claim 10, whereinthe step of establishing an actual outcome of the game includes thesteps of: randomly establishing first and second primary outcomes of thegame, each primary outcome having an associated fractional value; andadding the fractional values associated with the first and secondprimary outcomes of the game to establish the actual outcome of thegame.
 17. A method, as set forth in claim 16, wherein the sum of thefractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomesmay be positive or negative.
 18. A method, as set forth in claim 17,wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative and the actualoutcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the sum of the fractionaloutcome is positive or negative, respectively.
 19. A method, as setforth in claim 10, including the step of reducing the wager as afunction of the wager and the fractional payout multiplier correspondingto the chosen outcome if the actual outcome is not equal to the chosenoutcome.
 20. A method, as set forth in claim 10, wherein the game isimplemented as one of a table game or software run on one or morecomputers or a computer network.
 21. A slot gaming apparatus,comprising: an outcome generator to generate an actual outcome, theactual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes, theoutcome generator having at least one a rotating reel, the at least onerotating reel having one or more reel positions, each reel positionhaving an associated fractional value, the outcome generator having oneor more paylines being composed of at least one reel position; and, acontroller for rotating the at least one reel and establishing an actualoutcome, the actual outcome having a fractional payout multiplier, thefractional payout multiplier determined as a function of the fractionalvalues of the at least one reel position of one of the paylines, thecontroller for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including astake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possibleoutcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as a function of thefractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if theactual outcome equals the chosen outcome.
 22. A gaming apparatus,comprising: at least one roulette wheel, the at least one roulette wheelhaving a track with a plurality of cassettes, each cassette having anassociated fractional value, the at least one roulette wheel forgenerating an actual outcome, the actual outcome including one of thecassettes; and, a controller coupled to the roulette for establishing afractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the at leastone roulette wheel, for allowing a player to place a wager, the wagerincluding a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one ofthe possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as afunction of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosenoutcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.
 23. A gamingapparatus, as set forth in claim 22, wherein the at least one roulettewheel is a mechanical device or a virtual wheel.
 24. A gaming apparatus,comprising: an outcome generator to generate an actual outcome, theactual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes, theoutcome generator including a deck of cards, wherein at least one cardis dealt to a player, the cards having an associated fractional value;and, a controller coupled to the outcome generator for establishing afractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the randomoutcome generator, for allowing a player to place a wager, the wagerincluding a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one ofthe possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as afunction of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosenoutcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.
 25. A gamingapparatus, as set forth in claim 24, the cards are virtual cards.
 26. Agaming apparatus, comprising: at least one gambling wheel to generate anactual outcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possibleoutcomes, the gambling wheel having a plurality of chambers, eachchamber having an associated fractional value; and, a controller coupledto the outcome generator for establishing a fractional payout multiplierfor each possible outcome of the gambling wheel, for allowing a playerto place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, thechosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and formodifying the stake as a function of the fractional payout multipliercorresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals thechosen outcome.
 27. A gaming apparatus, comprising: a lottery wheelforming a cavity and having a plurality of lottery balls located in thecavity, each lottery ball having an associated fractional value, thelottery wheel for generating an actual outcome, the actual outcome beingone of a plurality of possible outcomes; and, a controller coupled tothe lottery wheel for establishing a fractional payout multiplier foreach possible outcome of the lottery wheel, for allowing a player toplace a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, thechosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and formodifying the stake as a function of the fractional payout multipliercorresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals thechosen outcome.
 28. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 27,wherein the lottery wheel is a mechanical device or a virtual wheel. 29.A gaming apparatus, comprising: an outcome generator to generate aplurality of primary outcomes, each primary outcome having a primaryvalue from a set of possible of values, the set of possible valueshaving a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number ofopposite negative numbers; and, a controller coupled to the outcomegenerator for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including achosen outcome, for establishing an actual outcome of the game bysumming the primary values of the primary outcomes and paying to theplayer a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.
 30. Agaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 29, wherein the outcomegenerator is one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine, adeck of playing cards, a table game, a lottery wheel, a gambling wheel,two or more dice, or any combination thereof.
 31. A gaming apparatus, asset forth in claim 29, wherein one or more of the actual outcomes arenegative and one or more of the actual outcomes are positive.
 32. Agaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 31, wherein the chosen outcomeis either positive or negative and the actual outcome equals the chosenoutcome if the actual outcome is positive or negative, respectively. 33.A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 32, wherein the payout isequal to 2 times the stake.
 34. A gaming apparatus, as set forth inclaim 29, the outcome generator, in establishing an actual outcome ofthe game randomly, establishes first and second primary outcomes of thegame, each primary outcome having an associated fractional value andadds the fractional values associated with the first and second primaryoutcomes of the game to establish the actual outcome of the game.
 35. Agaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 34, wherein the sum of thefractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomesmay be positive or negative.
 36. A gaming apparatus, as set forth inclaim 35, wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative andthe actual outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the sum of thefractional outcome is positive or negative, respectively.
 37. A gamingapparatus, as set forth in claim 34, wherein the chosen outcome is anumber and the actual chosen outcome is equal to the chosen outcome ifthe sum of the fractional values is equal to the chosen outcome.
 38. Agaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 34, wherein the chosen outcomeis a number and the actual chosen outcome is equal to the chosen outcomeif the absolute value of the sum of the fractional outcome is equal tothe chosen outcome.
 39. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 29,wherein the gaming apparatus is implemented as one of a table game orsoftware run on one or more computers or a computer network.
 40. Amethod for providing a game, the game having a plurality of possibleoutcomes, including the steps of: establishing a plurality of primaryoutcomes, each primary outcome having a primary value from a set ofpossible of values, the set of possible values having a predeterminednumber of positive values and an equal number of opposite negativevalues; allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stakeand a chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game;establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary valuesof the primary outcomes; and, paying to the player a payout if theactual outcome matches the chosen outcome ran.
 41. A slot gamingapparatus, comprising: an outcome generator to generate an actualoutcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possibleoutcomes, the outcome generator having a plurality of rotating reels,each rotating reel having one or more reel positions, each reel positionhaving an associated primary value, each primary value being from a setof possible of values having a predetermined number of positive valuesand an equal number of opposite negative values, the outcome generatorhaving one or more paylines being composed of at least one reelposition; and, a controller for rotating the reels and establishing anactual outcome, the actual outcome determined as a sum of the primaryvalues of the at least one reel position of one of the paylines, thecontroller for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including astake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possibleoutcomes of the game, and for paying to the player a payout if theactual outcome matches the chosen outcome.
 42. A gaming apparatus,comprising: a plurality of roulette wheels, each roulette wheel having atrack with a plurality of cassettes, each cassette having an associatedvalue, each value being from a set of possible of values having apredetermined number of positive values and an equal number of oppositenegative values, each roulette wheel for generating a primary outcome,the primary outcome including one of the cassettes; and, a controllercoupled to the roulette wheel for allowing a player to place a wager,the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcomebeing one of the possible outcomes of the game, for establishing anactual outcome of the game, the actual outcome determined as a sum ofthe primary values associated with the cassette of the primary outcomeof each roulette wheel, and for paying to the player a payout if theactual outcome matches the chosen outcome.
 43. A gaming apparatus, asset forth in claim 42, wherein the at least one roulette wheel is amechanical device.
 44. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 42,wherein the at least one roulette wheel is a virtual wheel.
 45. A gamingapparatus, comprising: an outcome generator to establish a plurality ofprimary outcomes, each primary outcome having a primary value from a setof possible values, the set of possible values having a predeterminednumber of positive values and an equal number of opposite negativevalues, the outcome generator including a deck of cards, wherein atleast one card is dealt to a player, each card being associated with aprimary outcome; and, a controller coupled to the outcome generator forallowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and achosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes ofthe game, for establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing theprimary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to the player apayout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.
 46. A gamingapparatus, as set forth in claim 29, the cards are virtual cards.
 47. Agaming apparatus, comprising: at least one gambling wheel to establish aplurality of primary outcomes, each primary outcome having a primaryvalue from a set of possible values, the set of possible values having apredetermined number of positive values and an equal number of oppositenegative values, the gambling wheel having a plurality of chambers, eachchamber being associated with a primary outcome; and, a controllercoupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager,the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcomebeing one of the possible outcomes of the game, for establishing anactual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primaryoutcomes and for paying to the player a payout if the actual outcomematches the chosen outcome.
 48. A gaming apparatus, comprising: at leastone lottery wheel to establish a plurality of primary outcomes, eachprimary outcome having a primary value from a set of possible values,the set of possible values having a predetermined number of positivevalues and an equal number of opposite negative values, the at least onelottery wheel forming a cavity and having a plurality of lottery ballslocated in the cavity, each lottery ball being associated with a primaryoutcome; and, a controller coupled to the outcome generator for allowinga player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosenoutcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of thegame, for establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing theprimary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to the player apayout, if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.